This Fresh Grilled Chicken Strawberry Salad is a bright and tasty meal! It features juicy grilled chicken, sweet strawberries, crunchy mixed greens, and a light dressing that ties it all together.
Nothing beats the combination of sweet and savory! I love how easy it is to whip up, making it perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. Just grill the chicken, toss everything together, and enjoy! 🍓🥗
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless chicken breasts are perfect here for even grilling and tender bites. If you want to switch it up, try grilled shrimp or tofu for a lighter option!
Mixed Greens: Use any mix of salad greens you love! Spinach, arugula, and romaine are great, but kale or spring mix work too. If you’re looking for a low-carb option, you could use shredded cabbage.
Strawberries: Fresh strawberries add a sweet and juicy burst. During off-season, you can use frozen strawberries, just thaw and drain them. Substitute with blueberries or peaches if preferred.
Cheese: Crumbled feta gives a nice tangy contrast. For something different, try goat cheese or even blue cheese for a bolder flavor. Or skip the cheese entirely for a dairy-free version!
Nuts: Sliced almonds or pecans add crunch. If you have allergies, keep it nut-free by using seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds.
How Do I Grill Chicken Perfectly?
Grilling chicken can be tricky, but following these steps can lead to delicious results. Make sure to start with a clean grill, and preheat to medium-high heat for best searing.
- Brush the chicken with olive oil and season with salt and pepper for flavor.
- Cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side. Don’t move the chicken too much; let it get those nice grill marks.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C). This helps avoid overcooking!
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after grilling. This helps the juices redistribute for a juicier bite.
Fresh Grilled Chicken Strawberry Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Salad:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 6 cups mixed salad greens (such as spinach, arugula, and romaine)
- 1 cup fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese or goat cheese
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds or pecans, toasted
- 1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
- Fresh basil or mint leaves for garnish (optional)
For the Dressing:
- 3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful salad will take about 25-30 minutes in total. Expect around 10 minutes for preparation and about 15-20 minutes for grilling the chicken, plus a little extra time for slicing and assembling the salad. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for a healthy meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Begin by preheating your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. This ensures your chicken cooks evenly and gets those lovely grill marks!
2. Season the Chicken:
Take your chicken breasts and brush them with olive oil. Season both sides generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. This helps enhance the chicken’s flavor when grilled!
3. Grill the Chicken:
Place the chicken on the grill and cook for about 5-6 minutes per side. Make sure to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Once cooked, remove it from the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes.
4. Prepare the Dressing:
While the chicken is resting, grab a small bowl and whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed; it should be a lovely balance of sweet and tangy!
5. Slice the Chicken:
Once the chicken has rested, slice it into thin strips so it’s easy to incorporate into the salad.
6. Assemble the Salad:
In a large salad bowl, combine the mixed greens, sliced strawberries, red onion (if you’re using it), and toasted nuts. Drizzle in about half of the dressing and toss everything together gently to coat the ingredients evenly.
7. Add the Chicken and Cheese:
Top the salad with the grilled chicken slices and sprinkle crumbled feta or goat cheese over everything. If you’re feeling fancy, add some fresh basil or mint leaves on top for a fragrant touch!
8. Final Touches:
Before serving, drizzle the remaining dressing over the salad. This adds extra flavor and makes everything shine!
9. Serve and Enjoy!
Dig in and enjoy your fresh, flavorful grilled chicken strawberry salad! Perfect for lunch or a light dinner!
FAQ for Fresh Grilled Chicken Strawberry Salad
Can I Use Leftover Chicken for This Salad?
Absolutely! Leftover grilled chicken works perfectly here. Just slice it up and add it to the salad. This is a great way to use up any extra chicken from previous meals!
What Can I Substitute for Strawberries?
If strawberries aren’t available, feel free to substitute with fresh blueberries, sliced peaches, or even mandarin oranges. Each will bring a unique flavor and sweetness to the salad!
Can I Make the Dressing in Advance?
Yes! You can make the dressing ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. Just give it a good shake or whisk before using, as it may separate over time.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge. It’s best enjoyed within 1-2 days. For optimal freshness, keep the dressing separate until you’re ready to eat the leftovers!
